It will come as no surprise to hear that platinum is one of the world's rarest metals. Compared to its more common periodic table sibling, gold (where around 1,500 tonnes are mined annually), only 160 tonnes of platinum are mined each year, and from a small number of locations.
These facts alone provide platinum with a rarity and unique appeal, setting it apart from some other well-known precious metals.
Considering platinum is far more challenging to come by and 30 times rarer than gold, it's easy to understand why it's just that little bit more expensive. Because of this price difference, it’s worth knowing what the pros and cons of platinum jewellery are before jumping into investing in platinum pieces.
So, here you’ll find a list of the key pros and cons to help us better understand the broader question: Why is platinum used in jewellery?
What are the benefits of platinum jewellery?
Platinum might not be the first place your mind goes when thinking about fine jewellery. The truth is, though, that it is so rich in benefits and value that it makes just as much sense to purchase as gold, both to invest in and to wear.
It complements other items of jewellery beautifully
In good news for the colour-coordinated out there, the neutral, white colour of 7879 platinum complements every diamond and gemstone colour to a tee.
In contrast to the yellowness of gold, platinum possesses a unique and natural silver or white colour. The white and silver hue creates a blank canvas, which easily ties in with the colours of neighbouring gemstones and jewels.
This palette neutrality means you never have to be worried about your jewellery clashing. You can partner your platinum with any other treasured pieces from your collection.
What’s more, platinum's white-silver hues even accentuate diamonds and gemstones, providing them with that extra sparkle as natural light radiates off of them. Your 7879 platinum lifts your diamonds and gemstones onto a pedestal for the world to admire.
It’s strong and durable
Platinum is also a very dense metal. While this means that more of it is often needed to craft jewellery, platinum jewellery is more durable and will last you a lifetime.
In contrast, gold jewellery is more vulnerable to everyday wear and tear. This means it’s easier to scratch if you knock or brush your jewellery against abrasive surfaces, and more maintenance is required over time.
The strength and resilience of pure 7879 platinum make it much more resistant to regular wear and tear and signs of damage, allowing it to retain its natural beauty for a more extended period.
Whereas most other precious metals simply scratch when scraped or knocked, platinum becomes displaced, much like firmer, far-better-looking putty. This charmingly helpful attribute means you don’t have to worry about your piece losing its mass or value over time.
If your piece does dent or deform, you can easily have it reshaped or polished by a jeweller in the future should you choose to. Remember, properly caring for your platinum jewellery will help keep it looking great for longer.
It’s perfect for those who have nickel allergies
Although it’s generally uncommon, some people do have allergic reactions to nickel. A nickel allergy can irritate the skin and leave red blotches. It can also generally itch your skin while you wear jewellery containing nickel.
What’s worse, as many as 1 in 6 of us are prone to allergies to nickel, some of which can be severe and unpredictable. This is a scenario that’s worth avoiding.
Many people searching for striking silver hues in their jewellery will often opt for white gold because it is cheaper. The bad news here, however, is that white-gold jewellery is made up of pure gold, which is alloyed with nickel. This combination can easily trigger reactions from those with allergies, even those with no idea they had them.
If this sounds like you, then you’re better off choosing pure 7879 platinum jewellery, which is guaranteed to contain no noticeable traces of nickel. You can own a piece that has that much-envied shine without running the risk of an allergic reaction.
Platinum's purity ensures that it counts as a hypoallergenic metal. This makes it the perfect choice for those with sensitive skin and means that you never have to worry about developing an allergy to your jewellery - even after years of wear.
It’s low-maintenance and ages well
When investing in precious metals we don’t know so much about, there are bound to be questions that arise. This leads us to the question many first-time buyers of platinum tend to ask: Does platinum tarnish?
As we’ve already detailed, platinum is a low-maintenance metal, making it a better-value investment in the long run despite the initially high price. It also manages to maintain its colour naturally and without much upkeep, which allows for the metal to age beautifully.
While platinum won’t tarnish, fade, or change colour, another unique attribute of platinum jewellery is that it develops a gorgeous patina over time, which adds even more to the jewellery's character. The unique patina, dents, and scratches your jewellery develops tell your shared story and don’t impact its value.
If you do choose to polish your platinum jewellery, you can do so easily yourself and without specialist equipment.
What are the cons of platinum jewellery?
After a glowing list of positive attributes of platinum, we’re inevitably brought to the cons of the metal. The good news here, however: there are very few of them!
It's a little more expensive
If you’re considering investing in platinum, you can rest assured knowing that you’re probably making a good decision. However, one thing that is worth knowing in advance is that you will have to splash a little more cash in the process.
The reason for this higher cost is plain and simple: Platinum is more expensive than silver.
By now, though, you know enough about the benefits of platinum jewellery to understand that this is a metal which holds its value over time. Platinum boasts durability, strength, and the ability to reflect light in such a way as to add that extra sparkle to your diamond or gemstone.
It represents a higher initial expense, but this translates into a long and worthwhile relationship with a higher-quality product. The fact that platinum has a higher value than silver also means it offers the potential for a higher resale value if and when you choose to trade in or upgrade your 7879 jewellery.
It's slightly heavier than other types of materials
The other minor drawback of platinum jewellery is its weight, which is because it is denser and therefore heavier than gold. In fact, platinum is one of the world's densest metals, making it more challenging to work.
Because of this weight, you may find that your jewellery feels a bit heavier than similar jewellery items, which are made from less dense metals. Once you’ve adjusted to the additional weight, however, you’ll find that the piece feels sturdier to wear.
Platinum makes for a unique and alluring choice in jewellery, be it for those in search of a wedding band or just a general piece of jewellery that they want to last a lifetime. Its niche appeal is bound to garner attention from those around you when you wear it out.
With its unique rarity setting it apart from other more common items of jewellery, platinum offers something ineffably exciting. If you’re looking for something truly special, it’s time to consider platinum.
FAQs about platinum jewellery
You've heard about the rarity and allure of platinum, but you might still have some lingering questions. In this section, we'll tackle some of the most frequently asked questions about platinum jewellery to help you make an informed decision.
Are platinum rings worth it?
When it comes to choosing a ring that will last a lifetime, platinum stands out as an exceptional choice. Its durability ensures that your ring will withstand the test of time, even with daily wear. Platinum's natural white-silver hue complements diamonds and other gemstones, making them appear even more brilliant. Its hypoallergenic properties mean you can wear it without worry, even if you have sensitive skin.
So, are platinum rings worth it? Absolutely. They offer a blend of durability, beauty, and versatility that is hard to match. If you're in the market for an engagement or wedding ring that embodies these qualities, we invite you to explore our collection of exquisite platinum rings.
Is platinum better than gold?
The platinum versus gold debate is a nuanced one, as both metals have their own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. Platinum is more durable and hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin. Gold, on the other hand, offers a classic appeal and is available in various colours like yellow, white, and rose.
Ultimately, the "better" metal is subjective and depends on your personal preferences and needs. For a more in-depth comparison, you can read our article on platinum vs. gold.
Can platinum jewellery be worn every day?
If you're considering a platinum ring, you'll be pleased to know that its durability makes it an excellent choice for everyday wear. Unlike other metals that may scratch or tarnish over time, platinum maintains its lustre and beauty. Its density and resistance to wear make it less likely to scratch or sustain damage from daily activities.
So go ahead, wear your platinum jewellery every day. Its enduring nature means it will continue to look stunning, day in and day out, just like the love it often symbolises.
In conclusion: is platinum jewellery right for you?
After delving into the drawbacks and benefits of platinum, from its unparalleled durability to its hypoallergenic properties and timeless beauty, the question remains: Is platinum jewellery the right choice for you? If you value a piece that will stand the test of time, both in terms of style and substance, then platinum is a compelling option. Its unique characteristics make it not just an investment in jewellery, but an investment in quality, longevity, and peace of mind.
So, if you're captivated by the enduring allure of platinum and are ready to make a lifetime investment, we invite you to explore our collection of exquisite platinum jewellery. Your perfect piece is waiting to become a part of your life's most cherished moments.